Networked waste processing apparatus

ABSTRACT

The present invention is related to methods and systems for waste disposal. In one embodiment, a waste pickup apparatus comprises a network interface configured to communicate with a networked waste disposal unit associated with a first user, a data store containing user rules, processor executable instructions configured to read a user-specified waste pickup rule for a first user from the data store, determine if the user-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied based at least in part on the status information, if the user-specified waste pickup rule is not satisfied, to again determine if the user-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied when a predetermined period has elapsed, and if the user-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied, cause a waste pickup entity to pickup the waste, wherein the waste pickup entity is selected based at least in part on a preference of the first user stored in computer readable memory.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/029,163, filed Feb. 11, 2008, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 10/785,706, filed Feb. 24, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No.7,328,842, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/684,328, filed Oct. 13, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,086,592,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/929,817,filed Aug. 14, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,663,004, and claims priorityfrom U.S. Patent Application No. 60/449,462, filed Feb. 24, 2003, andfrom U.S. Patent Application No. 60/470,138, filed May 13, 2003, thecontents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to copending application, entitled NETWORKEDDISPOSAL AND REPLENISHMENT APPARATUS, Ser. No. 10/785,932, and copendingapplication, entitled NETWORKED DISPOSAL AND SAMPLE PROVISIONINGAPPARATUS, Ser. No. 11/490,618, the entirety of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is related to waste disposal and in particularmethods and systems for waste disposal processing and replacement ofdisposed of items.

2. Description of the Related Art

Because of the world's expanding population, the age-old solution ofburying trash is becoming less attractive for many reasons, includingfor example, the limited availability of disposal sites and theresultant contamination of the environment. In an effort to helpalleviate some of the problems associated with discards, recycling hasbeen gaining in popularity. Although recycling helps both by reducingthe overall amount of trash and makes more efficient use of naturalresources, the pick-up and sorting of the items to be recycles is ofteninefficient and expensive.

Another consideration of modern trash disposal is that when an item isdiscarded, it often needs to be replaced. Often, this requires a humanoperator to take action to ensure that the discarded item is replaced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are related to processing discardeditems, processing information related to discarded items, and replacingdiscarded items.

One embodiment of the present invention advantageously uses consumptionto automatically generate shopping orders and select samples, as well tofacilitate inventory management, waste disposal and recycling.Embodiments of the present invention can save consumers time, energy,and money.

In one example embodiment, a disposal apparatus scans data stored onitem packaging being discarded. The scanned data is processed and usedto generate shopping orders, the provisioning of samples, to controlinventories, and/or manage waste disposal operations. In particular,order lists are automatically generated based at least in part on thescanned data and on user preferences. Advantageously, the user canmodify orders, delivery dates and times. Product samples are likewiseprovisioned based at least in part on user preferences.

Further, substantially real-time consumption information enablessuppliers to predict future consumer orders, thereby enabling suppliersto manage inventories more efficiently, and enabling manufacturers tobetter plan production. Similarly, substantially real-time disposalinformation enables waste disposal and recycling operators to betterplan waste and recycling pick-ups and processing operations.

One embodiment provides a waste pickup apparatus, comprising: a networkinterface configured to receive status information for a networked wastedisposal unit associated with a first user; a data store containing userrules; a first processor executable instruction configured to read auser-specified waste pickup rule for a first user from the data store; asecond processor executable instruction configured to determine if theuser-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied based at least in part onthe status information; a third processor executable instructionconfigured to, if the user-specified waste pickup rule is not satisfied,to again determine if the user-specified waste pickup rule is satisfiedwhen a predetermined period has elapsed; and a fourth processorexecutable instruction configured to, if the user-specified waste pickuprule is satisfied, cause a waste pickup entity to pickup the waste,wherein the waste pickup entity is selected based at least in part on apreference of the first user stored in computer readable memory.

Another embodiment provides a waste management apparatus, comprising: anetwork interface configured to receive sensor information from anetworked waste disposal unit fullness sensor associated with a firstuser; a data store that stores user defined rules and preferences; awaste pickup initiation system that reads a user-specified waste pickuprule for a first user from the data store and that determines if theuser-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied based at least in part onthe sensor information, wherein if the user-specified waste pickup ruleis not satisfied, after a predetermined condition, the waste pickupinitiation system again determines if the user-specified waste pickuprule is satisfied, and if the user-specified waste pickup rule issatisfied, the waste pickup initiation system transmits an instructionto a waste pickup entity to pickup the waste, wherein the waste pickupentity is selected based at least in part on a preference of the firstuser accessed from the data store.

Still another embodiment provides a method of processing waste, themethod comprising: reading a user-specified waste pickup rule for afirst user from computer accessible memory; determining if theuser-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied based at least in part onthe status of a waste unit receiving over a network; if theuser-specified waste pickup rule is not satisfied, after a predeterminedcondition, again determining if the user-specified waste pickup rule issatisfied; and if the user-specified waste pickup rule is satisfied,causing a waste pickup entity to pickup the waste, wherein the wastepickup entity is selected based at least in part on a preference of thefirst user accessed from a computer readable database.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein with referenceto the drawings summarized below. These drawings and the associateddescription are provided to illustrate example embodiments of theinvention, and not to limit the scope of the invention.

A more complete understanding of the present invention, and theattendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readilyunderstood by reference to the following detailed description whenconsidered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein.

FIG. 1 is a perspective drawing of an electronic trash unit according toan embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the control panel shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the back of the control panel shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a view of the internal components of the control panelaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an electronic trash network according to anembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a detailed process of disposing of trashaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a second example embodiment of a networked system.

FIGS. 8A-C illustrate a second example trash disposal device andordering system.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example scanning, identification, and orderingprocess.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example waste and/or recycling process.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example process for selecting users to receivedsamples.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example process of collecting and distributingsample feedback information.

FIG. 13A illustrates an example sample preference form.

FIG. 13B illustrates an example coupon processing method.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example mode rule creation/modification process.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example mode rule form

FIG. 16 illustrates an example mode selection form

FIG. 17 illustrates an example product record.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example mode application process.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example bidding process.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention are related to processing discardeditems, processing information related to discarded items, and replacingdiscarded items.

Throughout the following description, the term “Web site” is used torefer to a user-accessible network site that implements the basic WorldWide Web standards for the coding and transmission of hypertextualdocuments. These standards currently include HTML (the Hypertext MarkupLanguage), HTTP (the Hypertext Transfer Protocol), Java, and XML. Itshould be understood that the term “site” is not intended to imply asingle geographic location, as a Web or other network site can, forexample, comprise multiple geographically distributed computer systemsthat are appropriately linked together. Furthermore, while the followingdescription relates to an embodiment utilizing the Internet and relatedprotocols, other networks, such as networked interactive televisions,and other protocols may be used as well. In addition, unless otherwiseindicated, the functions described herein are preferably performed byexecutable code and instructions running on one or more general-purposecomputers. However, the present invention can also be implemented usingspecial purpose computers, state machines, and/or hardwired electroniccircuits.

As will be described below, in one example embodiment, a disposal unitscans data stored on item packaging being discarded. The scanned data isprocessed and used to generate shopping orders, the provisioning ofsamples, to control inventories, and/or manage waste disposaloperations. In particular, shopping order lists are automaticallygenerated based at least in part on the scanned data and on userpreferences. Advantageously, the users can modify orders and the timeframe for delivery schedules. In one embodiment, product samples arelikewise provisioned based at least in part on user preferences.

Further, real-time consumption information enables suppliers to predictfuture consumer orders, thereby enabling suppliers to manage inventoriesmore efficiently, and enabling manufacturers to better plan production.Similarly, real-time disposal information enables waste disposal andrecycling operators to better plan waste and recycling pick-ups andprocessing operations.

Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic trash disposal unit 10 includes astorage area 120, a controllable lid 110 which is moveably connected tocover the storage area 120 and a control panel 100 which is positionedon top of the controllable lid 110 including one or more sub-lids.Optionally the lid 110 can be motorized under control of CPU 400illustrated in FIG. 4. Storage area 120 can take the form of anysuitable shape (for example, cylindrical, rectangular, square, etc.). Inthe embodiment shown, trash is deposited in the proper container usinggravity. As illustrated, the controllable lid 110 includes 4 sub-lidsfor correspondingly covering four separate openings 112, 113, 114 and115 of four separate storage bins 112 a, 113 a, 114 a and 115 a whichcorrespond to the openings 112, 113, 114 and 115, respectively. In theclosed position, these sub-lids work together to provide a temporaryholding shelf where a trash item to be discarded (not shown) may beplaced. The trash item to be discarded is placed so that a scanningdevice 140 located on the control panel 100 can electronically read acode such as a barcode located on the trash item. The trash item isidentified and the proper opening is activated allowing the trash itemplaced on the controllable lid 110 to fall into the proper storage bin(112 a, 113 a, 114 a and 115 a) in storage area 120. The storage bins(112 a, 113 a, 114 a and 115 a) as well as the storage area 120 may beconstructed of metal and fabricated using known methods of construction,or may be constructed out of a polymer or composite material.

Each of the storage bins (112 a, 113 a, 114 a and 115 a) may contain aremovable liner (not shown) to facilitate emptying of the unit 10. Theliner may be disposable and remain with the discarded trash or it may bea reusable liner that may be emptied into a larger depository andreturned to the unit 10. The liners may be made in different colors toindicate the kind of recyclables present therein. It should be apparentto those skilled in the art that other means of sorting and storingtrash would be suitable and are considered to be within the scope ofthis disclosure such as using a conveyor belt system to transport thetrash items identified in the manner disclosed above to the storage area120. Also, although four openings are shown (112, 113, 114 and 115),more or fewer openings may be utilized without departing from the spiritof the present invention.

The control panel 100 is described with references to FIGS. 2-4. Asshown, the control panel 100 is arranged to provide an easy to operateuser interface for the trash unit 10. The control panel 100 includes aninformation display 130 which displays information about the trash itemdiscarded in accordance with the present invention. Examples of the kindof information displayable include detailed descriptions about the item,cost to replace the item, title of the item, identification code,product advertisement, as well as other information that might be usefulto the user. The displayed information may be customized to suit theindividual needs of the user. The displayable information may be storedin a database that resides within the unit 10 or may be accessed from aremote database using a communication network such as the Internet.

Although the display 130 is depicted as a visual display, it is withinthe scope of this disclosure to use any suitable means to communicatethe desired information to the user such as a speech synthesis outputdevice. Thus, for example, one embodiment of the trash unit 10 includesa control panel interface such as described with respect to controlpanel 100 and/or a voice command and output interface, whereby a usercan provide oral instructions to the unit 10 and the unit can providefeedback and information using an audio signal. Optionally, the display130 can be a touch screen display, via which users inputs can beprovided.

In an embodiment of the invention, a discard button 125 is used toinitiate the control command that scans the trash item. Other methodscould be used such as a pressure activated switch located on thecontrollable lid 110 that automatically starts the scan process when thetrash item is placed thereon. Optionally, in addition to or in place ofthe discard button 125, a motion or presence sensor circuit can beincluded. As a person or object approaches or comes near the unit, thescanner is activated and starts functioning in response to the sensordetecting the presence of the person or object. Optionally, a user maybe asked to enter a password before the scanning will be performed tothereby prevent a child or other unauthorized person for using thesystem.

Other user functions may be incorporated as needed and arerepresentatively illustrated as button 126. Button 126 may be a softwareprogrammable button which is user configured to customize the unit 10 orit may be a function specific input such as an over-ride switch. Abarcode or RFID scanner 140 is positioned to scan the trash item placedon the controllable lid 110 to identify the item using a machinescanable code affixed thereon. The code may be affixed from themanufacturer or it may be applied by the user of the present invention.Other electronic identification apparatus and processes can be used. Forexample an optical laser scanner can be used to scan the item packagingand/or labeling to identify the item. Alternatively or in addition, amagnetically encoded label can be included on the item which is scannedby a corresponding magnetic scanner included in the unit.

The control unit 100 may also have a variety of interface components asneeded by particular applications. In an embodiment, the control unit100 includes a keyboard port 240, a serial port 230, a phone lineadapter 220, and a network adapter such as an Ethernet adapter 210. Akeyboard (not shown) may be used to enter alphanumeric information intothe control unit 100 such as item codes or discard instructions. Thekeyboard can also be directly included on the control panel 100. Theserial port 230, may be used to connect a variety of externalperipherals, such as, but not limited to, personal digital assistant(PDA), printers, backup drives, etc. Such devices are known in the artand the present invention allows users to utilize appropriate technologyto interface with the control unit 100 to best suite the need of theuser. For example, a tape or solid state backup drive can be pluggedinto the serial port 230 to make a nightly backup of the day's activityof the unit 10 or a user can connect a PDA or personal computer to thecontrol unit 100 using the appropriate interface (i.e., serial port 230or network adapter 210, etc.) for downloading the contents of the unit10 into the PDA or personal computer.

The trash unit can include other interfaces, such as a parallel port, aFireWire port, a USB port, a USB2 port, pointing device inputs amongother input/output interfaces as are known in the art. In addition tostandard telephone inputs such as the phone line adapter 220, a wirelesscommunication link may be used to communicate with a communicationsnetwork (i.e., the Internet) using an antenna 200. The antenna 200 mayalso be placed inside the control unit 100. A power button 250 isprovided to control power to the electronics included in the controlunit 100.

Internal to the control unit 100 is a CPU 400, associated memory 414,and other components which allow the CPU 400 to operate as a computer asis known in the art. The memory 414 can include volatile memory and/ornon-volatile memory that store program code and data, wherein theprogram codes is executed by the CPU 400 to process data and control theoperation of the trash unit, including the scanner 140, lid 110, networkinterface 210, control panel 100, and other trash unit devices. By wayexample, the non-volatile memory can include fixed or removable solidstate FLASH memory, a magnetic disk drive, and/or an optical disk drive.The volatile memory can include RAM.

The CPU 400 may be permanently connected to a communications network ormay initiate a connection as needed. The connectivity of the unit 10will be discussed in more detail below. A power supply 410 is used topower the trash unit 10. The power supply 410 can receive its power froman AC line, or can be battery or solar powered.

Now referring to FIGS. 2, 3 and 5, a communication network 730 such asthe Internet is used to provide connectivity of each unit 10 with one ormore central databases 720 that keep track of the disposed contents ineach unit 10. The communication network 730 may be accessed using thenetwork adapter 210 or by connecting the control unit 100 to a modem(not shown) using the phone line adapter 220 or through a wirelessconnection using an internal modem (not shown) coupled to the antenna200 as is known in the art. The connection can be via a broadbandconnection, such as a digital subscriber line (DSL), a T1 line, asatellite link, and/or a cable hookup, which are sometimes referred toas “always on” connections. Dial-up modems plugged in a phone line ornetworked connections such as wide area networks (LAN or WAN) may beutilized to provide the needed connectivity.

Suppliers, market researchers, recycling companies, and other interestedparties 700 also connect using the communication network 730 to accessinformation contained in the central database 720. Each trash unit 10sends its information which includes the type and amount of trash storedin each bin (112 a, 113 a, 114 a and 115 a). Either the user or athird-party contractor 700 may be notified when it is time to empty thebins by a message being transmitted from the central database 720 usingthe communication network 730 or the user may be notified of the need toempty the bins by a notification message appearing on the informationdisplay 130 located on the control unit 100. Other methods ofnotification, such as an indicator light (not shown) mounted on thecontrol unit 100 or on the controllable lid 110 can be used. In theembodiment which relies on notification from the central database 720 toinform the interested party (either the user or third-party contractorsuch as a recycling company) of the need to empty the bin, acommunication (such as an e-mail, telephone or data message) may be sentback to the CPU 400 in the control unit 100. The information may bedisplayed on the information display 130. The choice of the method usedto deliver emptying instructions may be selected by the user to bestsuit the application.

In operation, the trash item is temporarily placed on the controllablelid 110 so that the barcode reader 140 can scan the item for anidentification code. Most products today have a scanable code affixedthereon but the process for dealing with code-less and unrecognizableitems is discussed below. The barcode reader 140 identifies thediscarded item by referring to an identification database (not shown)which is accessible by the CPU 400. The identification database canphysically reside within the trash unit 10 or it may be accessible bythe CPU 400 through the communication network 730. A user presses thediscard button 125 to initiate the process of scanning and identifyingthe item. In addition or alternatively, a motion or presence sensor candetect the presence of a person or object and at least partly inresponse, the unit initiates the identification and scanning process.Once the item is identified, the relevant information is displayed ondisplay 130 such as a description, title, recorder code or price of thereplacement. If the user wishes to reorder the item being discarded, anorder is initiated in accordance to predefined ordering instructions.The reordering process can take place automatically, that is whenever arecognized item is disposed using the unit 10, the CPU generates andtransmits a reorder instruction to a selected supplier. The centraldatabase receives and stores the scanned discarded item information fromeach user. Optionally, a central computing system coupled to the centraldatabase generates orders according to users preferences. The userpreferences can be entered by the user via an online Web page, by phone,by fax, and/or through the trash unit touch screen display, keyboard, orotherwise. Thus, in one embodiment, orders will optionally not be sentdirectly to suppliers and/or the orders will not be generated by thetrash disposal unit. In an embodiment, optionally orders will begenerated and sent directly to suppliers by the trash disposal unit viathe Internet or other network. In either case, reordering isautomatically accomplished.

In another embodiment, the user is given the opportunity to confirm thedesire to reorder the discarded item. The user's choice may be inputtedinto the control unit 100 using any suitable input method such aspressing the “soft button” 126 presented on the touch screen displaywhen instructed to do so by an instruction displayed on the informationdisplay 130, pressing a key on a keyboard (not shown) or by speaking ifa voice recognition input is implemented as is known in the art. In oneembodiment, the unit 10 transmits information regarding a discarded itembeing disposed in a unit 10 to a central reordering site such as apurchasing officer's workstation (not shown) and allows the reorderingdecisions to be centralized rather than individually made at the localunit 10 level. Once an identification is made, the proper storage bin(112 a, 113 a, 114 a and 115 a) is selected to store the item. Theproper bin opening (112, 113, 114 and 115) is opened and the item fallsinto the selected storage bin. The central database 720 is informed ofthe location of the trash item. The proper storage bin is selectedaccording to recycling guidelines which can be customized depending onthe geographic location of the user and the recycling options available.Examples include a simple recycling scheme would include separating thetrash into glass, plastic, metal and all else. A more elaborate schememay be used to suit the individual needs of the user such as separatingdifferent color glass or different kinds of plastic, etc.

Some items like discarded organic or packing materials are notidentifiable by the unit 10 and the user may simply wish to discard themwithout identifying or reordering. They may be simply discarded using abypass means such as by pressing the “soft button” 126 if the button isso programmed. Of course, any other input means to indicate the discardchoice would be acceptable as discussed above. Non-recyclable items maybe stored in an appropriate bin. Items that are recyclable but notreordered are still identified so as to be placed in the proper bin andto update the central database 720 with the contents of the unit 10.

The initial programming of unit 10 is provided by the manufacturer ofthe unit 10. The manufacturer may offer different options such aproviding a unit 10 that only has a wireless interface for connectingwith the communication network 730 or may provide a “standard” unit 10that includes most of the common options with the user using the unit 10in a way that makes sense in the context of the user's application.Another embodiment includes a user programmable unit 10 that may becustomized by the user. It is anticipated that an operating system wouldbe built into the CPU 400 along with a user specific program interfacethat would allow the user to select various options from a menupresented. In another embodiment, a large user of the present inventioncould specify the functionality desired and the manufacturer wouldprogram the specific requirements into the individual units 10. Someunits 10 could be programmed to meet different needs (i.e., some units10 may have a voice recognition input while others use a keyboard) andyet communicate and work together over the communication network 730 toperform the required functions as a whole.

A method of the use an apparatus of one or units 10 is described withreference to FIG. 6, a flow chart of the method of disposing of trashaccording to the present invention. Initially, a trash item is placed oncontrollable lid 110 (step S-100). The user is presented with a bypass(step S-105) to deal with the case of unidentifiable or non-scanableitems. Items selected for bypass are simply discarded (step S-110).Items so discarded are placed in a general storage bin. If the bypass(step S-105) is not selected, the item is scanned to see if a code isdetectable (step S-115). If no code is found, the user is given anopportunity to manually input a code (step S-120). If the item code islocated (step S-115) or manually inputted (step S-120), the code may bemanually inputted using a suitable input device such as voicerecognition or keyboard as discussed above), the code is compared usingan identification database (step S-125). If a matching code is found inthe database, information such as title, price to replace or reorderingcode, etc. is displayed on the display 140 (step S-140) allowing theuser to decide whether or not to replace and reorder the item (stepS-145). If no matching code is found (step S-125), the unit mayoptionally search using the communication network 730 (step S-130) and,if found, the information is displayed as discussed above. If no code islocated (step S-135), the user is still given the opportunity to reorderthe item (step S-145), however, no information will be displayed and acode will have to be manually entered if not previously done (stepsS-150 and S-155). A reorder instruction is generated and transmitted tothe proper supplier (step S-160). In one embodiment, the reorderinstruction is generated by the CPU 400 according to the programmingprovided and customized by the user as discussed above. The reorderinstruction may be printed out and sent by mail to a supplier or may betransmitted electronically to the supplier. However, as described above,optionally the order is generated and transmitted by the centralcomputer system, rather than the trash disposal unit. Next, the properbin opening (112, 113, 114 and 115) is selected (step S-165) and thecontent database is updated to keep a record of the items stored therein(step S-170). As discussed above, the proper bin is selected byreferring to the local recycling rules programmed into the CPU 400 or bythe generic rules programmed by the manufacturer.

Users of the trash units 10 may customize each unit to meet specificneeds of the user. Examples of the preferences users may specify includereordering periods such as weekly, monthly or when the total value ofthe reorder equals or exceeds a certain level. Other customizablepreferences include which supplier or suppliers to use, which may befurther customized by best price, specific supplier for a specificconsumable, method of payments such as credit card, billing, check,etc., which recycling company or companies to use, etc. Because thetrash units 10 are customizable, the user experiences great flexibilitywhen implementing the present invention. The user benefits by using thetrash units 10 by allowing automated replacement of consumables andautomated separation of recyclable materials. Because of the use oftrash units 10 reorders consumables as specified by the user,inventories may be reduced leading to enhanced productivity on the partof the user. If the trash units 10 are used in a home setting, the userspends less time in the supermarket since a list of used consumables isconstantly available. The “grocery list” can be generated by the trashunit 10. Additionally, because of the ease and automated handling ofrecyclables, the user may be able to benefit financially from the resaleof the recycling materials sorted by the unit 10. Also, all of thesystem and transaction information, such as reordering period,reordering levels, suppliers, billing information, order history, orderstatus, user account information, recycling options, credits and thelike, can be made available to users over the Internet.

The role of the central database 720 in the function of the trash units10 is to store detailed lists of the contents of each unit 10 linked tothe database 720. Additionally, the central database 720 stores the userpreferences discussed above such as how often to reorder, who to reorderfrom, the best price to pay, etc. Also, the central database functionsto authorize credit transactions between users, suppliers and otherthird-parties such as recycling and market research companies. Thecentral database may also send confirmations of orders or emptyinginstructions as discussed above. These instructions and confirmationscan be sent by e-mail, “regular mail” or fax. Another role of thecentral database 720 is that of statistic gatherer enabling the user tobetter anticipate their future needs and trends.

Suppliers in the resupply process benefit by optionally receivingautomatic reorders which enhances customer loyalty. Credit may bepreauthorized reducing the risk of write-offs. Suppliers also benefit bythe statistical data generated by the central database 720 which allowsthe supplier to reduce the inventory required to meet the customer'sneeds. Written confirmations or orders are sent by the central database720 providing a written contract to facilitate good business relations.

Participating recycling companies benefit by having a steady source ofrecyclables, which can optionally be separated using a trash disposalunit with multiple chambers without having to deal with intermediarieswhich drives up the cost. Credits for materials received from users canbe credited through the central database 10, thereby streamliningoperations. Additionally, many users will wish to contract with therecycling companies directly to empty the units 10 automatically,thereby increasing revenues for the recycling companies.

Other third parties such as marketing research companies benefit byhaving a detailed list of the disposed items in each unit 10. This willallow research into ways to decrease supplier and user waste and tostudy consumer behavior. Additionally, research may be done on ways todevelop more environmental packaging, especially in regard to highvolume items as identified by the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example embodiment of a networked waste processingand replenishment system. The disposal units 7002 are coupled to one ormore remote data processing systems 7005, comprising servers anddatabases 7004, via a wide area network, such as the Internet 7006. Thedatabases 7004 can further comprise one or more of a user accountdatabase 7010, a product database 7012, a sample database 7014, amanufacturer database 7015, a coupon database 7016, and acontent/recycle database 7018 for the disposal units 7002. The databases7004 can optionally be searched using SQL queries using one or more ofthe database fields to find records having corresponding field data. Forexample, with reference to the product database schema discussed below,to locate samples having vegetarian ingredients, a query can begenerated to locate product database records that have the Sample Flagset to a “1” and a Specialty Characteristic set to “vegetarian.”

The user account database 7010 includes user account information,including user contact information, preferences, including order,sample, modes, shipment and/or delivery preferences. All or portions ofthe user account information may be entered or submitted, and latermodified, by the user via a web site, disposal unit, phone, regularmail, email, or the like. One example user account database 7010includes the following fields or records one or more of which can storeinformation for a user:

User Account Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION User Name First name, Initial, Last name CompanyName of company, if any Mailing/Shipping Address Street Address, City,State, Zip code, Country Billing Address Street Address, City, State,Zip code, Country Daytime Phone Phone number where user is availableduring the day Nighttime Phone Phone number where user is availableduring the evening or night Fax Number User's fax number Mobile NumberUser's cellular phone number E-mail Address User's e-mail address UserID Unique user identifier User Password: Password used to access useraccount System Options Connection configuration (Broadband, dialup, DSL,T1), Internet provider, etc. Operating System Operating System of user'spersonal computer (Windows ME, 2000, XP; MAC OS X, Linux, etc.)Household/Company Demographics Number of household members or employees,ages, number of each gender, household income Payment PreferencePreferred form of payment (credit card, electronic fund transfer, check,place on account, etc.), and corresponding payment information (creditcard number, and credit card expiration date, bank account number,checking account number), and order dollar value limit Alternative Formof Payment Alternative form of payment (credit card, electronic fundtransfer, check, place on account, etc.), and corresponding paymentinformation (credit card number, and credit card expiration date, bankaccount number, checking account number, etc.) Disposal Unit 1Identifier Unique identifier, such as a serial number, associated with afirst of the user's disposal units Disposal Unit 1 Capacity The capacityin units of measurement (gallons, liters, etc.) of Disposal Unit 1Disposal Unit 2 Identifier Unique identifier, such as a serial number,associated with a second of the user's disposal units Disposal Unit 2Capacity The capacity in units of measurement (gallons, liters, etc.) ofDisposal Unit 2 Disposal Unit n Identifier Unique identifier, such as aserial number, associated with the n^(th) of the user's disposal unitsDisposal Unit n Capacity The capacity in units of measurement (gallons,liters, etc.) of Disposal Unit n User Order Preferences Criteria forselecting to who the order is to be placed with (select supplier withinuser zip code, order from specifically named supplier or suppliers,select supplier with best quoted price, select supplier that acceptsspecified payment preference, etc.) User Order Trigger PreferenceCriteria for when to place the order (date, value of order, time period,etc.) Order Confirmation Preference Provide order confirmation asspecified (phone, email, regular mail, and/or facsimile) Sample FlagFlag indicating whether user is willing to accept product samples (“1” -yes, “0” = no) User Sample: Preferences Criteria used to select productsamples to be provided to user Modes Suggestion Option Flag Flagindicating whether user wants alternative products suggested inaccordance with Modes Preferences (“1” - yes, “0” = no) ModesSubstitution Option Flag Flag indicating whether user wants alternativeproducts automatically substituted on the user's orders in accordancewith Modes Preferences (“1” - yes, “0” = no) [optionally, no more thanone of the Modes Substitution Option Flag and the Modes Suggestion Flagare allowed to be set Modes Preferences User selected order and deliverymodes Shipment Preference User preferred level or method of shipping(same day, next day, two day, standard, lowest cost, environmentallyfriendly shipping) Express Buy Shipment Preference User preferred levelor method of shipping for Express Buy option (same day, next day, twoday, standard, lowest cost, environmentally friendly). Generally, theExpress Buy Shipment Preference will be a faster form of shipment thanthat specified in the Shipment Preference field. Delivery OptionsPreferred day of week for delivery, preferred time range for delivery,request signature upon delivery, etc. Certain delivery options may beunavailable for certain forms of shipments. Mode Rules User specifiedmode rules Waste Pickup Provider Preference Preferred waste disposalprovider (user can specify provider identifier, specify lowest costprovider, or provider that bids the most for recyclables). Waste PickupTrigger Preference Pickup rule: Pickup at specified day, at a specifiedinterval (twice a week, weekly), a specified amount of time since thelast pickup, and/or when one or more disposal units are at a specifiedfill level (half full, three-quarters full, full)

The order database 7012 stores pending or placed user orders. An exampledatabase record for a given user order can contain the following fields:

Order Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION User ID The user's unique identifier as recordedin the user account database Item 1 Code The SKU or other code used toidentify Item 1 Item 1 Price The price quoted to the user when Item 1was added to the user's order Item 1 Date The date Item 1 was added tothe order Item 1 Coupon The coupon code for a coupon submitted by theuser in relations to the order for Item 1 Item 1 Price Date The end datefor which the Item 1 price is guaranteed if the user has not yetGuarantee placed the order Item 1 Quantity The quantity of Item 1 to beordered Status The order status (pending, placed, or fulfilled) for Item1 Item n Code The SKU or other code used to identify Item n Item n PriceThe price quoted to the user when Item n was added to the user's orderItem n Date The date Item n was added to the order Item n Coupon Thecoupon code for a coupon submitted by the user in relations to the orderfor Item n Item n Price Date The end date for which the Item n price isguaranteed if the user has not yet Guarantee placed the order Status Theorder status (pending, placed, or fulfilled) for Item n

The product database 7014 maps barcode or other item code to SKUs,product names, cost, sizes, calories, packaging materials, and/or thelike. One example product database 7014 includes the following fields orrecords:

Product Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION Product code The item SKU Price The item pricefrom a supplier selected in accordance with the user order preferences,which can be dynamically retrieved from the supplier's product pricingdatabase Quantity per Item The number of units including in the item,for example, the number of cans of soda or the number of oz. of cleaningsolution in a bottle of cleaning solution Ingredients The itemingredients Calories The number of calories in the item or the number ofcalories per item unit Specialty Can specify if the item is low sodium,low cholesterol, low carbohydrate, Characteristic non-fat, peanut-free,gluten-free, sugar-free, non-dairy, vegetarian Packaging Material Thetype of packaging material (recyclable plastic, recyclable cardboard,recyclable metal, non-recyclable plastic, non-recyclable cardboard, non-recyclable metal, non recyclable other) used for the item Product nameThe text name of the item Sample Flag A flag that when set to “0”indicates the item is not a sample, and when set to “1” indicates thatthe item is a sample Family The product family Kind The product kindManufacturer The name of the manufacturer or other manufactureridentifier Stock The number of items in stock

The manufacturer database 7015 includes information on the manufacturerthat may be useful when locating products associated with a manufacturehaving certain characteristics or attributes which a user may deemdesirable, such as the manufacturer's treatment of the environment,treatment of employees, support of a given social cause, and the like.By way of example, the user can specify that the user prefers orrequires that ordered items be from a manufacturer that provides itsemployees health insurance and that donates money to AIDs preventionorganizations. When the waste processing and replenishment system ordersreplacement items for the user, the system will search the manufacturerdatabase to locate manufacturers who meet the criteria, and will thensearch for corresponding replacement items from the locatedmanufacturers. One example manufacturer database 7015 includes thefollowing fields or records:

Manufacturer Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION Manufacturer ID Manufacture name or otheridentifier ISO 9000 Quality compliance indicator with respect to ISO9000 Living Wage Indicator as to whether manufacturer pays employees aliving or specified minimum wage Health Benefits Indicator as to whethermanufacturer provides employees health benefits and/or insurance Childlabor Indicator as to whether manufacturer employs child laborCharities/Social Names, Tax ID, and/or other identifier to causes whichmanufacturer donates money or other resources Renewable % of energyutilized by manufacturer that Resources comes from renewable resources

The sample database 7016 stores information regarding available samplesand their characteristics, where the characteristics can include thesample product category, the size of the sample and the contents orsample ingredients. Optionally, the sample database 7016 need not beused, and instead the sample product information is stored in the sampledatabase, wherein the sample flag discussed above is used to indicatewhich products are samples. One example sample database 7014 includesone or more of the following fields or records:

Sample Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION Sample Item Product code The sample item SKURegular Product codes SKUs corresponding to non-sample versions of thesample item Quantity per Item The number of units including in thesample item Sample Item Ingredients The sample item ingredients SampleItem Calories The number of calories in the item or the number ofcalories per item unit Sample Item Packaging The type of packagingmaterial Material (recyclable plastic, recyclable cardboard, recyclablemetal, non-recyclable plastic, non-recyclable cardboard, non-recyclablemetal, non recyclable other) used for the sample item Sample ItemProduct Name The text name of the sample item Stock The number of sampleitems in stock

The coupon database that includes a mapping of coupon codes to the itemsor services for which the coupon can be applied, the coupon start datewhich indicates when the coupon can be first used, the coupon expirationdate, an indication as to whether the coupon can or cannot be used inconjunction with other coupons, an optional unique code number thatidentifies each coupon, coupon status, that indicates if a correspondingcoupon can still be used, and for customer-specific coupons or couponsthat can only be used a specified number of times, a record as towhether the coupon has been used yet and/or how many times the couponhas been used.

The coupon value can be expresses as a dollar or specific monetaryvalue, a percent discount, a free shipping coupon, or a “Buy X get YFree” coupon, where the user gets one or more free Y items if the userbuys one or more X products. The coupon can be in the form of amembership benefit, such as a discount afforded to members or preferredmembers of a buying club or organization. The coupons can be electroniccoupons that have a code which can be entered via the disposal unit 7002or the computing device terminal 7008. One example coupon database 7016includes one or more of the following fields or records:

Coupon Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION Coupon Identifier the code associated with thecoupon Start Date the date when the coupon is first valid End Date thelast day the coupon is valid Times useable the number of times thecoupon can be used Times used the number of times the coupon has beenused Coupon value expressed as a specific monetary value, a percentdiscount, free shipping, or a “Buy X get Y Free”

The content/recycle database 7020 can include a list of items and/orpackaging materials deposited in each disposal unit 7002, where multipledisposal units 7002 can be associated with the same user and/ordifferent users. One example content/recycle database 7020 for a userincludes one or more of the following fields or records:

Content/Recycle Database Schema

FIELD DATA DESCRIPTION User ID The user's unique identifier as recordedin the user account database Disposal Unit 1 Unique identifierassociated with a first of the user's Identifier disposal units Item 1Code The SKU or other code used to identify Item 1 Item 1 Packaging Thetype of packaging material for Item 1 (recyclable Material plastic,recyclable cardboard, recyclable metal, non- recyclable plastic,non-recyclable cardboard, non- recyclable metal, non recyclable other)used for the item (obtained by accessing the product database using Item1 Code) Item n Code The SKU or other code used to identify Item 1 Item nPackaging The type of packaging material for Item n (recyclable Materialplastic, recyclable cardboard, recyclable metal, non- recyclableplastic, non-recyclable cardboard, non- recyclable metal, non recyclableother) used for the item (obtained by accessing the product databaseusing Item 1 Code)

The data processing systems 7005, including the databases 7004, can beassociated with the data processing system operator, a supermarket, adistribution center, a waste disposal and recycling entity, a deliveryservice, a logistics company, and/or a third party operator. Asillustrated in FIG. 8A, the disposal units 7002 optionally maintaindatabases storing the same or similar information to that of databases7004 discussed above, however each unit 7002 optionally only stores useraccount and order information for one user, household, and/or disposalunit. Optionally, portions of the user account, product, manufacturer,samples, coupon, and content/recycle database information will only bekept by one of a local database and a remote database, while portions ofthe user account, product, manufacturer, samples, coupon, andcontent/recycle database information will be kept in both a localdatabase and a remote database.

The disposal units 7002 are optionally coupled to a local externalcomputing device 7008 via a peripheral interface, such as a USB orFireWire bus, via a wired local network, such an Ethernet network,and/or a wireless network, such as an iEEE 802.11b or IEEE 802.11gcompliant network. The computing device 7008 can be personal computer,set top box, PDA, Internet appliance, or the like. The computing device7008 can be used to setup and change preferences for the unit 7002,store, retrieve, and modify content and order lists, and can be used toaccess the system operator's web site in order to set up an account,review and modify account information, review and modify orderinformation, and the like. In addition, the computing device 7008 can beused by the unit 7002 as an access point to the Internet 7006.

As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the disposal unit 7002 includes an integralcomputer 804 and/or an interface to an external computing device, suchas computing device 7008, or other personal computer, Internetappliance, interactive television, set top box, personal digitalassistant, and the like. The integral computer 804 includes a centralprocessing unit (CPU) or controller 806, memory 807, including volatilememory 808 and non-volatile memory 810 that store data as well asprogram code 811. The integral computer 804 processes data and controlsthe operation of the disposal unit 7002, including the scanner, lid,network interface, and user interface. For example, the non-volatilememory 810 can include fixed or removable solid state FLASH memory,battery backed memory, a magnetic disk drive, and/or an optical diskdrive. The volatile memory 808 can include, for example, RAM.

The stored program code 811 can include one or more instructions, whichcan be straight-line code and/or organized as modules or objectsconfigured to receive and process inputs, provide outputs, and toselectively store data. The data can include a serial number for theunit 7002, user preference data, a mapping of product codes or SKUs toproduct names, sizes, and packaging materials, as well as disposal unit7002 content information regarding items placed into the disposal unit7002, shopping lists, passwords and/or unique identifiers for accessingremote databases and services, and the like. The data can be stored inone or more local databases, such as a user account database 812, anorder database 814, a product database 815 that includes mappings ofitem codes to item product information, a sample database 816, a coupondatabase 818, and a waste/recycle database 820. The local user account,order, product, sample, coupon, and waste/recycle databases 812, 814,815, 816, 818, and 820 can store the same or similar information asdiscussed above with respect to the corresponding remote user account,product, manufacturer, samples, coupon, and content/recycle databases7010, 7012, 7014, 7015, 7016, 7018, 7020.

By way of example, some or all of the databases 812, 814, 815, 816, 818,and 820 can be located in the disposal unit 7002's non-volatile memory810, or in the local personal computer's 7008 memory.

The example disposal unit 7002 includes, directly and/or via an externaldevice, an interface device 822 to a wide area network such as theInternet. The interface device 822 can be a dial-up modem, a cablemodem, a DSL modem, a T1 modem, a wireless modem, satellite interface,or other network interface, that correspondingly interface to a PublicSwitched Telephone Network, a cable network, a DSL or ADSL line, a T1line, a wireless network, a satellite network, or other network. Thenetwork interface device 822 is coupled to the CPU 806 and to a data ortelephone network. If a wireless interface device is used, an antenna829 is included. The disposal unit 7002 can also be coupled via awireless access point to a Public Switched Telephone Network, a cablenetwork, a DSL or ADSL line, a T1 line, a wireless network, a satellitenetwork, or other network.

The disposal unit 7002 further includes, directly and/or via an externaldevice, a user interface device 824, such as a touch screen or non-touchscreen display 831, keyboard, voice command interface, and/or the like,which are optionally grouped on a control panel, as illustrated in FIG.8B, distributed on different portions of the unit 7002. The userinterface device can be fixedly mounted, attached via a hinge so theangle of the device 824 can be changed by the user, or can be detachableand interface to the disposal unit 7002 using a wireless interfacedevice, such as a Bluetooth or IEEE 802.11 interface device.

In one embodiment, the disposal unit 7002 includes an integral displaywith a touch screen, keys, a printer, and can further be operated viathe external computing device 7008. The computing device 7008 cancoupled to the unit 7002 via a local peripheral bus interface 828, suchas a USB or FireWire interface or via a local network, such an Ethernetnetwork, or a wireless IEEE 802.11b or IEEE 802.11g network.

The CPU 806 can be further coupled to a fill-level detection sensorsystem 843 and a pressure sensor 849 discussed in greater detail below.

The disposal unit 7002 can include a power on/off key 830 and one ormore function-specific hard keys and/or soft keys displayed on the touchscreen. The key functions can be software programmable. These keysenable the user to modify the operation of the unit 7002 and/or theprocessing of user's orders without having to go through a complex menuhierarchy, though such a menu hierarchy can be used as well. By way ofexample, the specific functions keys can include a “Buy Now” key 832, an“Express Buy” key 834, and a “Discard” key 836.

Activation of the Buy Now key 832 overrides the user's order triggerpreferences, and instead triggers the substantially immediate placementof the stored, pending order. Thus, the order will be placed during thecurrent session or the next time the unit 7002 connects to the remotesystem 7005. Activation of the Express Buy key 834 causes thetransmission of an instruction to the system 7005 operator to have thespecific scanned product or products delivered using its fastestavailable or an expedited delivery service. For example, a consumer canuse the Express Buy key 834 when the consumer needs a lamp or a batteryurgently. Activation of the Discard key 836 will add the discardeditem's scanned information to a waste/recycling database but will notadd the discarded item to a pending order. Thus, a user can activate theDiscard key 836 when the user does not want a replacement for thedisposed of item. Optionally, the Buy Now and Express Buy instructioncan also be issued by the user via the waste processing andreplenishment system operator's web site.

The disposal unit 7002 includes one or more scanners 838 coupled to theCPU 806. The scanners 838 are used to scan codes on disposed of items,coupons, and other materials. The codes can be used to encode one ormore of a product code, SKU, the name of the item, the size of the item,the item container-type and materials, the brand of the item, the costof the item, and the expiration date of the item. The scanners caninclude one or more of an optical scanner, such as a barcode scanner, ora RFID scanner.

The RFID scanner includes an antenna or coil, a transceiver, and adecoder. The RFID scanner is used to scan an RF tag programmed withinformation that is fixed to the item. The transceiver produces signalsthat are emitted by the antenna as radio signals. The radio signals areused to activate the RF tag and to read and write data to it. Theantenna can be mounted, by way of example, on the lid 842, or in or onthe unit 7002 body.

The scanners can include a handheld head 840 coupled to the disposalunit 7002 via a cable or wireless Bluetooth connection. In anotherembodiment, the scanner head 840 is fixedly mounted to the disposal unit7002. In one embodiment, the scanner is a self contained unit thatstores scanned data internally and then downloads the data to thedisposal unit 7002 or to a computing device, such as the computingdevice 7008.

As illustrated in FIG. 8C, a cover or lid 842 is optionally provided toclose the disposal unit 7002 receptacle opening 846. The cover 842 canbe automatically opened and closed by one or more motors 845 receivingand a discarded item. The motors 845 can be positioned on the exterioror interior of the unit 7002. In addition or alternatively, the cover842 can be manually opened and closed. The cover 842 can be a two pieceassembly that has two lids 842A, 842B, each covering about half of thereceptacle opening 846 and meeting at about the middle of the receptacleopening 846.

A processor controlled actuator or solenoid 847 can be used toselectively hold the lid 842 or lids in the closed position or canrelease the lid 842 or lids so as to swing open. The actuator 847 can bepositioned on the exterior or interior of the unit 7002. In addition,each lid 842A, 842B can have a spring-loaded hinge so as to swing openwithout additional motive force. In another embodiment, only a singlelid 842 hinged on one side is used. The lid(s) can be used to supportthe item during the scanning process or a separate shelf is optionallyprovided to support the item.

The fill-level detection sensor system 843 coupled to the CPU 806 islocated within the disposal unit 7002 to detect and confirm that theuser disposed of the item. The sensor system 843 can include one or moresensors. In one embodiment, the sensor system 843 can comprise anoptical sensor that emits a light beam and that detects when an object,such as the disposed of item, falls into the light beam path viareflection from the item. In another embodiment, the sensor system 843can comprise a sonar sensor that emits sonic waves and that detects whenan object, such as the disposed of item, falls into the sonic wave pathvia reflection from the item. The detection sensor system can includeseveral sensors at different heights so as to detect how full the unit7002 is. For example, a sensor can be placed at the halfway point, thethree-quarter way point, and at the full capacity point.

In addition, the pressure sensor 849, coupled to the CPU 806 and incontact with the lid 842, can be used to sense when an item is placed onthe lid 842 or when the user presses down on the lid 842 which will thencause the scanning process to begin. In another embodiment, the useractivates a soft or hard key to initiate scanning.

The body of the disposal unit 7002 can be made from a variety ofmaterials, such as, by way of example, plastic, rubber, metal,cardboard, or a combination thereof. In addition, the disposal unit 7002can be manufactured in different capacity sizes, such as 9 gallons, 13gallons, 25 gallons, and the like. The disposal unit 7002 can bepowered, for example, via an AC line, battery, and/or solar power. Thedisposal unit 7002 can be used in conjunction with removable, disposalgarbage bags.

Optionally, before using the disposal unit 7002 to generate orders andthe like, the user sets up user profile information and preferenceinformation via a web site or other site associated with the disposalunit 7002 operator, or via phone, mail, or computer readable media. Forexample, the user can access the web site using the computing device7008. In addition, the user can access the web site to manage the user'saccount, including viewing the user's order history, managing open andpending orders, viewing order status, and viewing the user's consumptionstatistics over a specified period of time or since account inception.The information can include for example, that discussed above withrespect to the user account database schema or portions thereof.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example scanning, identification, and orderingprocess. However, not all the states need to be performed, and the orderof the process can be varied. In addition, during appropriate processstates, the user can be dynamically presented with the user's currentpending order list in response to user request or other trigger.Similarly, an indication as to when a pending order will actually beplaced and/or the next scheduled delivery date for a pending order canbe presented to the user in response to user request or other trigger.Information can be presented to the user via on the disposal unitdisplay 825 or on a local computing device display. Further, the usercan interrupt the process by activating the Discard key.

Beginning at state 902, the process proceeds to state 904, where theuser sets-up or modifies account preferences. As similarly discussedabove, the preferences can include order, sample, modes, shipment, anddelivery preferences. For example, the user can specify an order triggerpreference which causes the pending order to be placed. The user canspecify that the trigger will be the elapse of a specified period, suchas a week or month, since the previous order. Another trigger preferencecan be to place the order when the total value of the order equals orexceeds a certain dollar amount. The order preference can specify whichsupplier or suppliers to use. The user can also specify that the ordershould be placed with the provider having the lowest price for the totalorder, including shipping, specify a particular supplier for a specificconsumable, specify that the order should be placed with a provider thataccepts a designated form of payment, such as payment by credit card,billing, or check.

As discussed below, the sample preferences can include user-specifiedtypes of products the user will not accept samples off, such as thosecontaining certain food types such as pork, poultry, beef, fish, and/orseafood. The sample preferences can further specify that the user onlywants samples that have a certain characteristic. For example, the usercan specify with respect to food products, the user only wants samplesof certain types or categories of food products, such as vegetarian, lowfat, low sodium, and/or kosher food products.

The shipment and delivery preferences can include frequency of delivery,day of week, time, address, order confirmation by phone or email,signature upon delivery, normal delivery, lower priced delivery forchoosing “Environment-friendly Shipping Day,” or expedited delivery. The“Environment-friendly Shipping Day” process is used to reduce trafficand pollution by planning deliveries within a geographic area, such as ablock or within a zip code, so that multiple deliveries can be made onthe same day to that area to thereby reduce the number of trips to thearea and so traffic and pollution are reduced.

At state 905, the special instructions keys are read. For example, thedisposal unit 7002 detects, via an interrupt, scan, or polling routine,whether the user activated one of the special function keys or otherwiseprovided a corresponding instruction. As discussed above with respect toFIG. 8B, the specific functions keys can include the “Buy Now” key 832,the “Express Buy” key 834, and the “Discard” key 836. Optionally, theBuy Now and Express Buy instructions can be issued by the user via thewaste processing and replenishment system operator's web site.

At state 906, the user scans a machine scanable code printed orotherwise affixed to the item being discarded. The scanned informationcan be received and stored in local memory 807, and/or in one or moreremote databases 7004. The scan operation can be initiated by the useractivating a scan key or can be automatically initiated by the disposalunit 7002 in response to the item being in proximity of the unit 7002 orplaced on the lid 842. The disposed of item can be a food container, acleaning product container, or the like. The containers can be empty,partially filled, or full.

The scanable code may be affixed by the manufacturer, retailer,distributor, or the user may apply code. The code can be a barcode, RFIDtag, other electronic tag, magnetically encoded label, or the like. Oncethe item is scanned the disposal unit 7002 door is automatically ormanually opened, the user deposits the item in the disposal unit 7002,and optionally the sensor system 843 confirms that the item was indeeddeposited. Once the confirmation is provided, the remote or localcontent/recycle database is updated to include the discarded item.

If the user presses a “Discard” instruction key, the process proceeds tostate 934, and a Discard sub-process is performed. At state 936 thescanned item is not added to a pending order and the process ends. Thus,a user can activate the Discard key 836 or otherwise provide a discardinstruction when the user does not want a replacement for the disposedof item. The user is optionally asked to provide feedback as to why theuser does not want to order a replacement for the discarded item. Forexample, the reasons for not ordering can include “I do not use thistype of product anymore,” or “I already have inventory of this productin my home.” Optionally, if the discarded item is a sample,sample-specific feedback can be requested, such as “I tried the sampledproduct, but did not like it,” “I tried the sampled product and likedit, but I still prefer to use my current brand,” “I did not try thesample, and do not want to order it.” The user is asked to select areason, and the selected reason is stored locally by the disposal unit7002 and/or is transmitted for storage to the remote database 7004. Theuser feedback can then be distributed to appropriate manufacturers,retailers, distributors, marketing entities and advertisers who can usethe feedback to perform a market analysis and/or to refine their productofferings.

If the Discard key was not activated, the process proceeds from state907 to state 908. At state 908, the scanned code is used to determineone or more of the identity of the item, the size of the item, the itemcontainer-type, the brand of the item, the cost of the item, and/or theexpiration date of the item. The scanned code can directly include theforegoing information or can include a product code or SKU that can beused as a key to locate and access the information in a local or remoteproduct database.

The product database can be stored in the disposal unit 7002's localmemory, such as is product database 815, and/or accessed via a local orwide area network. For example, the product database can be a remotelylocated database 7004 and can be accessed over the network 7006 by largenumbers of disposal units 7002. As similarly discussed above, the remotedatabases 7004 can be associated with a supermarket, a distributioncenter, a waste disposal and recycling entity, a delivery service,and/or a third party operator.

The transactions with the remote database 7004 can be securelyperformed, using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol that providesencryption and authentication using digital certificates, using theWorld Wide Web Secure HTTP (S-HTTP) protocol. Other forms of securecommunication, such as Virtual Private Networks (VPN) can be used aswell. In addition, for authentication purposes unit 7002 can transmit apassword or unique identifier associated with the disposal unit 7002 orthe disposal unit 7002's owner or licensee.

In one embodiment, the disposal unit 7002 first attempts to locate andaccess the desired item information from the internally stored productdatabase 815, and if a match is not found, then accesses the remotedatabase 7004. The local database 815 can periodically be updated bysynchronized with one or more remote databases 7004 using, for example,SyncML file exchanges.

If the remote database 7004 is being accessed, once a secured connectionis established, the scanned product code and/or information relatedthereto, is transmitted by the discard unit 7002 to the remote dataprocessing systems 7005. The remote database 7004 locates informationcorresponding to the scanned product code. However, when an attempt toconnect to the remote data processing systems 7005 is unsuccessful, orthe remote database 7004 or remote data processing systems 7005 areotherwise unavailable, the disposal unit 7002 stores the product codeand other information in local memory 810. The disposal unit 7002 willthen attempt to connect to the remote data processing systems 7005according to one or more predefined rules, such as every predeterminednumber of minutes or at another specified time. Optionally, until aconnection is successfully accomplished, a warning is displayed to theuser on the disposal unit display 825 notifying the user of the failureto connect. Once a connection to the remote data processing systems 7005is established, the product code is transmitted by the unit 7002 to thedatabase 7004.

The information accessed from the local or remote databases can includethe product name, price, cost per unit, size, calories, ingredients,categorization, as well as other information stored in the databases,including for example, the information discussed above with respect toproduct database 7014. The located information can be transmitteddirectly back to the disposal unit 7002 or to the local computing device7008 coupled to the disposal unit 7002. The information or a portionthereof, is then displayed to the user and the disposal unit cover 842is automatically or manually opened.

For example, the information can be displayed on the disposal unitdisplay 825 or on a local computing device 7008 monitor. The user canprint out the information using the disposal unit printer 856 or using aprinter connected directly to the computing device 7008. Further,related information, such as advertisements for a product or electroniccoupons, can be transmitted from the remote data processing system 7005to the disposal unit 7002 for display or printout. The advertisement orcoupon can optionally be based on one or more of the user's disposed ofitems, pending orders, selected modes, buying habits and prior orders,and household demographics.

At state 910 a determination is made by the disposal unit 7002, thecomputing device 7008, or the remote data processing systems 7005, thatthe scanned item is a sample. This determination is made by comparingthe scanned information to the data stored in the remote and/or localproduct databases 7014, 815, or in the remote or local sample databases7016, 816. For example, if the scanned information contains a productcode, an SQL query can be generated to locate the corresponding productdatabase record, and if the sample flag is set to a “1”, the scanneditem is identified as a sample. Otherwise, the scanned item is notidentified as a sample. Alternatively or in addition, an SQL query canbe generated to locate the corresponding sample database record, and ifa match is found, the item is identified as a sample. Otherwise, theitem is not identified as a sample. If the item is not identified as asample, the process proceeds to state 911 where a modes applicationprocess is performed, as described in greater detail with respect toFIG. 18. The process then proceeds from state 911 to state 918.

If the scanned item is identified as a sample, the process proceeds fromstate 910 to state 912. The user is queried directly by the disposalunit 7002, or by the remote processing system 7005 via the disposal unit7002 or computing device 7008, as to whether the user wants to order aregular, non-sample version of the item.

If the user responds in the negative, the process proceeds to state 938,and user is asked to provide feedback as to why the user does not wantto order a regular, non-sample version of the item. For example, thereasons for not ordering can include “I do not use this type ofproduct,” “I tried the sampled product, but did not like it,” “I triedthe sampled product and liked it, but I still prefer to use my currentbrand,” “I did not try the sample, and do not want to order it.” Theuser is asked to select a reason, and at state 940 the selected reasonis stored locally by the disposal unit 7002 and/or is transmitted forstorage to a remote database 7004. The user feedback can then bedistributed to appropriate manufacturers, retailers, distributors, andwho can use the information to perform a market analysis and/or torefine their product offerings.

If the user responds affirmatively at state 912, the process proceeds tostate 914 and the user is requested to specify the size and/or number ofunits of the regular version that the user wants to order. At state 916,the user order information is received and added to the pending userorder stored in the remote and/or local order databases, or if there isno pending order, to a new order. In addition, the fact that the regularversion was ordered after the user discarded the sample is recorded inremote database 7004 for distribution to suppliers, retailers, research,and/or marketing firms who can use the information to perform a marketanalysis and/or to refine their product offerings. The process thenproceeds to state 918.

As discussed above, if the scanned item is not a sample, or if the userordered a regular version of an item sample, the process proceeds tostate 918. At state 918 the special key activations, if any, read atstate 905 are retrieved.

If the user provided a “Buy Now” instruction, the process proceeds tostate 920, and a Buy Now sub-process is performed. At state 922, theitem is added to the pending order and the order is placed, overridingor bypassing the user's preference trigger. The order instruction istransmitted via the network 7006 to one or more data processing systems2005. At state 924, the user's delivery preferences are retrieved fromthe local or remote user account database. For example, the user mayhave specified that same day, next day, two day, standard, lowest cost,or most environmentally friendly shipping is to be used. At state 926,the order is delivered by a delivery service or supplier in accordancewith the user's standard shipping preferences.

If the user provided an “Express Buy” instruction at state 918, theprocess proceeds to state 928, and an Express Buy sub-process isperformed. Optionally, at state 929 the user is queried via the disposalunit 7002 whether the user wants to apply the express buy instruction tothe user's entire pending order list, to a subset of the pending orderlist, or only to the item just scanned. The query can originate from thedisposal unit 7002 itself, or can be transmitted from the dataprocessing system 7005.

At state 930, the order is placed with expedited delivery specified inaccordance with the user's instruction, and an order instruction istransmitted to one or more remote data processing systems 7005. Thus,even if the user has specified in the user's account database ShipmentPreference field that the lowest cost delivery should normally be used,by issuing an express buy instruction, a higher level of deliveryservice will be used. Optionally, the expedited delivery can have adefault value, such as same day delivery. Alternatively or in addition,the user can specify in a user account Express Buy Shipment Preferencefield what level or type of delivery is to be used when an express buyinstruction is received. For example, the user can specify that sameday, next day, two day, or standard shipping is to be used for expressbuys. At state 936 the order is delivered by a delivery service orsupplier to the user specified shipping address using the specified ordefault express buy shipping.

If the user provided a “Discard” instruction at state 918, the processproceeds to state 934, and a Discard sub-process is performed. At state936 the scanned item is not added to a pending order and the processends. Thus, a user can activate the Discard key 836 or otherwise providea discard instruction when the user does not want a replacement for thedisposed of item.

If at state 918 the user did not activate one of the special functionkeys discussed above, or otherwise issue a corresponding instruction,the process proceeds to state 942, where the scanned item is added tothe user's pending order list stored in the remote and/or local orderdatabase. At state 944, the user's order preferences are retrieved fromthe remote and/or local user account database. At state 946 the order isplaced upon the occurrence of the user-specified order triggerpreference. As discussed above, the user order trigger preference can bethat an order is to be placed one week after the previous order, everysecond week after the previous order, monthly, at other specified timesor periods, or when the total value of the order equals or exceeds acertain level. At state 948, the order is delivered by a deliveryservice or supplier in accordance with the user's standard accountshipping preferences.

Once an order is place, an order confirmation can be provided by thesystem operator, supplier, or delivery service. Optionally, thepreferred type or types of confirmation can be specified by the user,and the preference stored in the remote or local user account databasefor later retrieval. The confirmation can be sent to the user via email,regular mail, a web site page, text messaging, instant messaging, orusing other messaging techniques as specified by the user or using adefault order confirmation type. The order confirmation includes a listof the items ordered, the cost of each item, the total cost, anydiscounts applied, delivery charges, if any, and the scheduled deliverydate and time, or a range of dates and/or time in which the delivery isto be performed. The order confirmation will also indicate if any of theordered items are unavailable. A shipping confirmation can be similarlyprovided one day before delivery, or when the orders have been shipped.The shipping confirmation can provide updated delivery dates and times.

Optionally, deliveries can be performed by a third-party logisticscompany, such as FedEx, DHL, UPS, or the U.S. Postal Service. Thedisposal and replacement system operator can print user address labelsand provide the labels and/or products, such as sample products to thelogistic company responsible for delivery.

One embodiment of the present invention facilitates efficient wastepick-up, processing and recycling operations. As discussed above, whendiscarded items are scanned, the disposal unit 7002 and/or remotedatabases 7004 record information identifying the items scanned andtherefore have information on the disposal unit's contents. Thisinformation can then be used to access information on the materials usedin the discarded item's packaging and containers. In one embodiment, thedisposal unit 7002 contains a waste bag. When the user replaces the bag,the user activates a Replace Bag key and in response, the disposal unit7002 prints one or more barcodes on the bag, or on a label which isaffixed to the bag by the user. Optionally, the bags can come withpreprinted unique barcodes acting as a bag serial number which can thenbe associated in the database with the bag contents and/or the user. Theprinted barcodes contain information on the materials used in thediscarded packaging and containers printed on it. The user can scan thebarcodes and the information is transmitted to a waste managementcompany. Optionally, consumers will receive credit or payment from thewaste management company, a government agency, or other entity for theirrecyclable waste.

FIG. 10 illustrates another example waste and/or recycling process. Theprocess starts at state 1002 and proceeds to state 1004. The userwaste/recycling pickup trigger preference or rule is retrieved from alocal or remote user account database. For example, the pickup triggerpreference can specify that the pickup should occur at specified day ofthe week, at a specified interval (twice a week, weekly), and/or whenone or more disposal units or at a specified fill level (half full,three-quarters full, full). At 1006 a determination is made whether thepreference trigger specifies a fill level. If yes, the process proceedsto state 1008 and the fill level is read by fill-level sensor system843. At state 1010 the fill level is compared to that specified by thepreference trigger and if the fill level equals or exceeds thatspecified by the preference trigger the process proceeds to state 1012.Otherwise, the process proceeds to state 1016, and the process isrepeated after a determined interval, which can be, for example, everyhour, every 8 hours, every day, or at other intervals.

At state 1012 the waste pickup provider preference is read from the useraccount database. For example, the user can specify a specific providerusing the provider's name or other identifier, or that the lowest costprovider is to be used. If the user specified that the lowest costprovider is to be used, the pickup is put out for bid. The informationincluded in the bid request includes the disposal unit 7002 contents sothat the bidders can determine the value of the recyclables and the costof disposing the non-recyclable items. At 1014, the selected provider isinstructed to perform the pickup, and the pickup takes places.

If at state 1006, it is determined that the trigger preference is notbased on the fill level, the process proceeds to state 1018, where adetermination is made as to whether the pickup trigger preferencespecifies a pickup interval or specific day. If not, the processproceeds to state 1020 and a default waste/recycling pickup schedule isused. The process then proceeds to states 1012 and 1014 as similarlydiscussed above.

If at state 1018, it is determined that the pickup trigger preferencespecifies a pickup interval or specific day, the process proceeds tostate 1022 and a determination is made if the pickup instruction is tobe provided at this time. If yes, the process proceeds to states 1012and 1014 as discussed above. Otherwise, the process proceeds to state1024 and the process is repeated after a predetermined period.

A process of providing samples in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention will now be described. As orders begin to beautomatically generated based on consumers' actual consumption of items,consumers may be less influenced by advertisement and less likely tomake impulse purchases. Advantageously, as similarly discussed above,one embodiment of the present invention provides a process formanufactures and suppliers to market new items to consumers despite theautomatic ordering process. Further, consumers are provided with aprocess for specifying characteristics of items that they are interestedin sampling.

The sampling process is optionally an opt-in process, wherein usersindicate their desire to participate in the sampling process. Byenrolling in a sampling program, qualifying users will receive freesamples of products delivered to their home or other specified deliveryaddress. The samples optionally include a barcode or other code on theproduct packaging indicating that the product is a sample. The barcodecan be included or be in addition to the item SKU. After using orconsuming the product, the user scans the code and disposes the productin the disposal unit 7002 as similarly discussed above for non-samples.The user's pending order can then be amended to include a regularversion of the sampled product. Optionally, before adding the regularversion of the sampled product to the order, the user is prompted toconfirm that the user wants to add it to the order. The fact that theuser ordered a regular version of the sampled product is stored in asample database for distribution to appropriate manufacturers,retailers, distributors, and advertisers to the extent permitted by theapplicable privacy policy and/or government regulations.

The example sampling process further prompts users to provide feedbackand then collects and stored such feedback in a sample database. Assimilarly discussed above, in one embodiment, when the user disposes ofa sampled product, the user scans the sampled product's code and thedisposal unit or remote data processing system identifies the discardedproduct as a sample from the scanned code. If the user then activatesthe Discard key, indicating that the user does not want to order aregular version of the sampled product, the user is prompted to providefeedback. For example, a feedback form is presented on the disposalunit's display, listing several potential reasons why the user may nothave wanted to reorder the item. The user is asked to select a reason,and once the user performs the selection, the selection is storedlocally by the disposal unit and/or is transmitted for storage to aremote sample database. The user feedback can then be distributed toappropriate manufacturers, retailers, distributors, marketing agencies,and advertisers, as discussed in greater detail below.

The sampling process enables manufacturers, retailers, distributors,marketing agencies, and advertising entities to launch more effectivemarketing campaigns because the user will be automatically prompted toorder or confirm the order of a sampled item. This may result in higherconversion rates, wherein the user orders a regular version of a sampledproduct, as compared to the success rates achieved by conventionalsampling, advertisements, shelf-presence in a supermarket, and the like.

In addition, the provisioning of samples is more focused and accurate ascompared with many conventional techniques. The samples provided to agiven user can be selected based on user profile information, includingthe user's order history, the user's preferences and selected preferencemodes, the user's household demographics, the user's address, and thelike, that will help identify the right target customers for a givenmarketing campaign. As illustrated in FIG. 11, at state 1102 useraccount information, including user demographic information, sampleopt-in information, sample preference and mode information, and pastorder history information, is received and stored in a database. Atstate 1104, the user account information is retrieved and thedemographic information compared to target customer demographics for agiven product or service. At state 1106, based on the comparison, theuser's opt-in information, and sample preference information, targetcustomers are selected to receive samples of the given product orservice. In one embodiment, an SQL query is generated using the forgoingparameters, and is used to query the sample product database 7014 todetermine what would be appropriate samples for the user. At state 1108,the samples and user addresses, and address labels are provided to asupplier, shipping and/or a logistics company, and the samples aredelivered.

Advantageously, the sampling process provides detailed consumption anduser impression feedback. FIG. 12 illustrates an example process ofcollecting and distributing sample feedback information. At state 1202,all or a portion of the users who received a sample for a given productor services are selected to review a survey request. The portion canoptionally be limited to only include users who have scanned the sampleas part of the discard process, indicating that the user may have usedthe sample. At state 1204, the survey is sent via the disposal unit7002, email, regular mail, a web page, text messaging, or by phone tothe users. At state 1206, the survey results are received. In additionor alternatively, the following information is provided:

The percent and number of households who ordered a given product afterreceiving a sample of the product

The percent and number of households who disposed of the sampled productin the disposal unit 7002 and did not order the product and/or activatedthe Discard key

The reasons households did not order the sampled product as providedduring the discard process or in response to later provided survey.

At state 1208 the survey results are distributed to the appropriatemanufacturers, retailers, distributors, marketing agencies, and/oradvertisers.

FIG. 13A illustrates an example sample preference form that the user canaccess via a web site, email, or otherwise. The form can include a fieldwherein the user can agree to participate in the sampling process byentering the appropriate indicator character or activating acorresponding link. The form lists products and product types that theuser can indicate the user will accept or will not accept free samplesof. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the user can indicate on theform that the user will not accept product samples containing certainfood types such as pork, poultry, beef, fish, seafood, or will onlyaccept certain types of food products, such as vegetarian, low fat, lowsodium, or kosher food products.

One embodiment of the sampling process further includes a couponprocess, wherein the user is provided with coupons that entitle the userto free products or samples, product price discounts, promotions (suchas buy one product and get another product for free), and the like.

The waste processing and replenishment system operator, manufacturers,retailers, distributors, and/or advertisers can provide the user withthe coupon in the form of a hardcopy coupon having a printed couponbarcode, using regular mail or with the delivery of an order. The couponbarcode can include a special barcode, including, for example, the UPCnumber system character #4 customized for eTrash Co.

The coupon can also be in the form of an electronic coupon or a textualcoupon code that can be emailed to the user or provided to the user viaa web site and which the user can print out. The coupon can also betransmitted to the user's disposal unit 7002 and displayed to the userand/or printed out by the unit 7002 or a connected computing device.Coupon information can be stored in a coupon database, as discussedabove. The coupon database can include a coupon identifier, a startdate, an end date, the number of times the coupon can be used, thenumber of times the coupon has been used, and the coupon value. By wayof example, the coupon value can be expressed as a specific monetaryvalue, a percent discount, free shipping, or a “Buy X get Y Free.”

If the coupon is a hardcopy coupon or a printout of an electroniccoupon, the user can enter and apply the coupon by scanning the couponcode using the disposal unit 7002 scanner. If the coupon is in the formof a textual coupon code, the user can type in the code using thedisposal unit 7002's keyboard or touch screen keyboard. If the coupon issent to and displayed using the disposal unit 7002, the coupon can beautomatically applied to an eligible purchase.

The coupons can include various restrictions of use. For example, thecoupon can be restricted to a single user or to a single use perhousehold. The coupon can also be time limited. Optionally, “numberedbarcodes” can be used, where each coupon has a unique barcode number.When the coupon is entered and applied, the use of the coupon isrecorded in the coupon database and that specific barcode is“deactivated” to prevent further use of the coupon.

With respect to free sample product coupons, once the user scans orotherwise enters the coupon code, the waste processing system willreceive the coupon code information. The system will then transmitinstructions to fulfill of the sampling order, as well as addressinformation, to a third-party logistics company or other fulfillmententity. Advantageously, the use of sample product coupons will increasethe use of the sampling process. For example, a manufacturer canauthorize the distribution of 10,000 coupons to selected consumers andthen evaluate the conversion rate of how many people who received and/orused the sample subsequently ordered the product sampled. Based on theevaluation result, the manufacturer can elect to send out an additionalnumber of sample product coupons to additional selected consumers and/orto generally distribute additional coupons to consumers at large.

FIG. 13B illustrates an example coupon processing method. The processbegins at state 1302 and proceeds to state 1304. The user scans thecoupon code using, for example, scanner 838 illustrated in FIG. 8B, andthe scanned code is transmitted to the processing system 7005. Theprocessing system 7005 uses the code to query the coupon database 7018to identify which products the user has the option to use coupon inconjunction with, and the product sizes and configurations for which thecoupon can be used. The processing system 7005 also verifies that thedate falls within the coupon start and end dates. If applicable, theprocessing system further determines if the coupon can only be used aspecified number of times, and if so determines whether or not thespecified number has been exceeded. At state 1308, the options aretransmitted to the disposal unit 7002 or computer terminal 7008 fordisplay to the user.

At state 1310 the processing system receives the user selection ofproduct size, configuration, and/or quantity. At state 1312 a notationthat the coupon has been used is stored in the coupon database 7016 inassociation with the coupon code. Information regarding the use of thecoupon can be provided to suppliers, retailers, research, and/ormarketing firms who can use the information to perform a market analysisand/or to refine their product offerings. At state 1314 the user's orderis stored in the order database 7012. At state 1316 the process ends.

With respect to discount coupons, once the user scans or otherwiseenters the coupon code, the waste processing and replenishment systemoperator will receive the coupon code information and the discount willbe applied to the user's pending order, assuming the order meets theconditions for the discount. In addition, there can be restrictions onthe number of discount coupons that can be used for a given quantity ofthe applicable product in a given order.

In one embodiment, users are provided with the ability to change,restrict and create new buying habits by specifying corresponding orderand delivery modes. Users can enable a modes option as part of theiraccount setup. If the user enables the modes option, then the systemwill suggest alternative products to the user. By taking advantage ofthe automatic replenishment and the modes, users can beneficially altertheir buying habits to thereby purchase healthier food, with little orno effort.

When providing alternative product recommendations, the selected modesguide and restrict automatic search filtering according to certainpreviously defined user substitution rules and restrictions, such asdietary preferences, for a replacement product similar to an itemscanned and discarded. In addition, certain modes can alter delivery andorder characteristics, such as when an order will be placed and/ordelivery scheduled.

Users can configure, revise, and review their mode rules andrestrictions via the system operator web site or using the disposal unit7002 user interface. These rules can be stored as part of the user'saccount information. FIG. 14 illustrates an example mode rulecreation/modification process. At state 1402, the process proceeds tostate 1404 where a rules wizard or form is provided. The user can usethe wizard or form to create and add a new rule or to modify an existingrule to be applied to a user selected product category and/orsub-categories. Once a product category, and sub-categories ifapplicable, are selected, the user can choose from the correspondingmodes menu. The following is one example modes menu:

Diet Mode Fat-free Mode Low-fat Mode Gluten-Free Mode Peanut-Free ModeSalt-Free Mode High-Protein Mode Egg-Free Mode Lactose-Free ModeNon-dairy Mode Kosher Mode Organic Mode Natural Mode Social Mode PopularMode Celebrity's Pick Biodegradable Packaging Mode Expert's PickEcological Packaging Mode M.D. (doctor recommended) Mode Safe Mode

A determination is made at state 1406 as to whether the user wants toedit an existing rule. If the user wants to edit an existing rule, theprocess proceeds to state 1410 where the rule to be edited is retrievedfrom the user account database, displayed, and edited by the user. Ifthe user does not want edit an existing rule, the process proceeds fromstate 1406 to state 1408 and the wizard guides the user through thecreation of a new rule. At state 1412 the new or edited rule is storedin the user's account record, and the process ends at state 1414.

When the user scans an item being disposed of, the user is queried viathe display unit user interface whether or not the user is willing tochange brand, product, family and/or kind if the system is able to finda product similar to the one scanned that satisfies the user's specifiedor selected modes. By way of example the “brand” of a yogurt can beDannon, the “product” would be yogurt, the “family” could be fat-free orlow-fat, and the “kind” can be the flavor, such as strawberry. By way offurther example, the “brand” of a razor can be Gillette, the “product”would be “razor”, the “family” can be the product family, such as Mach3,and the “kind” can be the quantity per package, such as a 3 pack.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example add mode rule form. The mode rule formcan be provided to the user as a web page on the user's computing deviceor via the disposal unit, by way of example. The user can select aparticular product or product type from a product category field. Theproduct category field can be a text entry field, wherein the user typesin the product or product category, or it can be a menu includingpredefined products or product categories. The product category can be,for example, a food category, such as yogurt, bagel, cheeses, butter,cereal, salad dressing, pasta, snacks, soup, tea, coffee, fruit juices,cake mix, canned fruit, baby formula, or the like. The product categorycan be, a non-food category, such as dish soap, dishwasher detergent,hand soap, batteries, sandwich bags, aluminum foil, cling-wrap, coffeefilters, water filters, trash bags, and the like.

A condition factor, such as “to be” “or “not to be” can be specified. Amode field is used to select from predefined preference modes, such asthose discussed above, or using a user-defined preference mode. Aflexibility field allows the user to specify an absolute or relativelevel of flexibility in accepting product substitution orrecommendations of alternative products. For example, the user canspecify a low level of flexibility to indicate the user is not willingto switch brand, type, family, and/or kind. The user can specify a highlevel of flexibility to indicate the user is willing to switch brand,type, family, and/or kind.

If the user checks or otherwise selects the mode selection “Restrictive”field box, then if a product that satisfies the rule is not found duringa search for a substitute product, an alternative product will not besuggested to the user and/or an alternative product will not beautomatically added to the user's order list.

If the user checks or otherwise selects the mode selection “Apply thisrule to Sampling” field box, samples will be selected for the user thatsatisfy the selected mode rules.

If the user checks or otherwise selects the mode selection “Apply onlythis rule to this product category” field box, the system will disregardother rules that would otherwise be applied to the selected productcategory. If the selected mode has a rating associated with it then therating method is selected via the rating method field. If the systemfinds more than one match for a scanned product, the user can specifyvia the rating method field that the product having the highest ratingfrom one or more rating entities should be added to the user's order.For example, the ratings can be from reviewing entities, such as productreview web sites or magazines that provide review. Alternatively or inaddition, the ratings can be based on market data, such as product salesvolumes, the system operator's or its employees' product preferences,and/or the preferences of one or more user-specified celebrities.

In addition, where the user has specified more than one mode for a givenproduct or product type, the user can specify the mode priority, thatis, the order in which mode filtering rule is to be applied. The usercan modify the mode priorities by changing the priority numbering, or bydragging and dropping modes to form a list corresponding to the desiredorder of application.

Example user selectable modes will now be discussed in greater detail.

Diet Mode: the system searches for a diet or low calorie product similarto the one scanned, and that satisfies other rules and restrictions, ifany, imposed by the user.

Fat-free/Low-fat Mode: the system searches for a fat-free or low-fatproduct similar to the one scanned, and that satisfies other rules andrestrictions, if any, imposed by the user.

Kosher Mode: the system searches for a kosher product similar to the onescanned, and that satisfies other rules and restrictions, if any,imposed by the user.

Organic Mode: the system searches for an organic product, made or grownwithout the use of pesticides, similar to the one scanned, and thatsatisfies other rules and restrictions, if any, imposed by the user.

Natural Mode: the system searches for a natural product made withoutman-made ingredients similar to the one scanned, and that satisfiesother rules and restrictions, if any, imposed by the user.

Popular Mode: the system searches for a product similar to the onescanned and that is the most popular brand based on quantity ordollar-value of sales, and that satisfies other rules and restrictions,if any, imposed by the user.

Celebrity's Pick: the system searches for a product similar to the onescanned, that has been identifies as a specified or selected celebrity'sfavorite product or brand, and satisfies other rules and restrictions,if any, imposed by the user. Optionally, the user can specify thecelebrity. In addition, the waste processing and replenishment systemoperator can enter into agreements with celebrities for the celebritiesto disclose their preferred products and which products they usuallybuy. Optionally, in exchange, manufacturers will pay marketing fees orprovide other inducements, such as pay for the celebrity's groceryshopping for an agreed amount of time.

Biodegradable Packaging Mode: the system searches for a product similarto the one scanned, provided that it has biodegradable packaging andsatisfies other rules and restrictions, if any, imposed by the user.

Expert's Pick: the system searches for a product similar to the onescanned, provided that it is an expert's favorite or recommended brandand satisfies other rules and restrictions, if any, imposed by the user.The expert can be associated with a specialized company, association, ormagazine, such as a food or wine magazine, that reviews products of thetype scanned. The expert can also be an aggregation of consumers'opinions. For example, the highest ranked product by certain consumerscan be designated the expert's pick. Optionally, the user can selectwhich expert should be used. The system operator can enter into anagreement with such experts and magazine to provide such picks orrecommendation.

M.D. Mode: the system searches for a product similar to the one scanned,and that is compatible with a medical condition, such as diabetes, orheart disease, and that satisfies other rules and restrictions, if any,imposed by the user. For example, there may be dietary restrictionsassociated with certain medical conditions. The medical dietaryrestrictions can be configured and specified by the user's doctor orusing dietary guidelines specified or endorsed by a respected medicalassociation.

Safe Mode: the system restricts the purchase and/or selection ofparticular products or product categories—such as alcohol, cigarettes,over-the-counter drugs—selected by the user (i.e., parents can set-up anaccount for their children, but prevent their children from orderingalcohol or cigarettes). Additionally, the user can specify otherrestrictions, such restricting the selection of substitute items tothose having a specified expiration date or later, or to those from ornot from a specified country of origin.

Ecological Packaging Mode: the system searches for a product similar tothe one scanned, that has packaging that is more ecologically safe orrecyclable than the scanned product (i.e., Coca-Cola: change 12 oz.plastic bottle for 12 oz. Aluminum can; recycled paper packaging,recyclable paper packaging), and that satisfies other rules andrestrictions, if any, imposed by the user.

-   -   1. —Social Mode: the system searches for a product similar to        the scanned product, provided that the manufacturer's        involvement with social causes coincides with, or at least        partially with, the ones of interest to or specified by the        user, and that the product satisfies other rules and        restrictions imposed by the user. The user can specify which        social causes the user wants taken into account (i.e., treatment        of U.S. or foreign workers, fight hunger in Africa, fight        against global warming, efforts preserve bio-diversity,        recycling efforts, energy efficiency, corporate governance        issues, and the like). Such information regarding the        manufacturer can optionally be stored in a manufacturer        database, such as manufacturer database 7015 described above.        Advantageously, use of this mode can motivate companies to be        more responsible socially, to thereby gain market share. Based        on user preference reports provided by the waste processing and        replenishment system operator, companies receiving such reports        will know how many consumers may be willing to change their        buying habits if the manufacturer is involved in resolving the        specified social problems. Optionally, the user can enter a code        via the unit's touch screen, keyboard, or the like that        corresponds to a predefined desirable manufacturer        characteristics. For example, the touch screen can include a        soft social mode key for entering such a code, which can be an        alphanumeric code. Upon activating the social mode key, an entry        field is displayed for receiving the code. By way of        illustration, an environmental organization can place an ad in a        magazine explaining the problems that plastic packaging cause to        the environment. The ad can provide a code that corresponds to a        corresponding social mode, wherein products will be ordered from        manufacturers that use ecological friendly packaging. For        example, the ad can recite: “if you want to order products from        manufacturers that use ecological friendly packaging, press the        social mode key and enter “524”, and your password, if needed,        and this mode will be automatically added to your account.”

Travel Mode: this mode is of particular use to travelers. When theTravel Mode is selected, the next automatic date of delivery isoverridden by a user-specified date, such as the user's return date froma trip, for the delivery.

-   -   Other modes. Other pre-customized rules and restrictions from        specialized organizations, such as those providing weight        control programs or muscle building programs.

To better ensure customer satisfaction, users can instruct that thesystem provide confirmatory communications, such as via email, regularmail, a web site page, text messaging, instant messaging, phone calls orusing other messaging techniques, that request that the user provideconfirmation of proposed changes in product and orders triggered byselected modes. The user instruction can be provided using the userpreference form.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example mode selection form 1600 for a pluralityof product categories having user-specified prioritization. The exampleform includes a priority field, a product category field, a modeselected field, a restrictive field, a flexibility field, and adescription field. The restrictive field is used to indicate whether theuser wants to restrict the substitute or suggested alternative productsor items to those that do not include a certain ingredient or do nothave some other characteristic. The description field can be used todescribe or specify the characteristic to be restricted via therestrictive field. By way of example, the description can list one ormore ingredients that the user has restricted out, that is, will notaccept in an alternative or substitute product.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example record for a product including productname, price, size, brand, type, family, and kind/flavor fields. Otherfields, such as ingredients, calories, and/or specialty characteristicsfields can be included as well. Thus, when searching for a substitute orsuggested substitute, the system determines if the size, brand, type,family, and kind/flavor, and other characteristics of a potentialsubstitute product corresponds to those acceptable by the user. If theydo, then the product is a suitable substitute product or recommendedsubstitute product, and the user is provided with the product name andprice and/or the item is added to the user's order.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example mode application process corresponding toMode Substitution state 911 illustrated in FIG. 9. Beginning at state1802, the process proceeds to state 1804, where the Modes SuggestionOption Flag and the Modes Substitution Option Flag are read from theuser account database. If either of the flags are set, indicating thatwith respect to discarded items, the user wants the system to determinewhether there is an appropriate substitute product which should besuggested to the user or automatically added to the user's order, theprocess proceeds to state 1806 and a first substitution modes rule isretrieved from the user account database. At state 1808 a determinationis made as to whether the rule is applicable to the discard productcategory and/or sub-category. For example, the category can be yogurt,soda, coffee, cereal, salad dressing, meat, cleaner, toothpaste, soap,or light bulbs, and the corresponding subcategories can includestrawberry yogurt, cola-type sodas, instant coffee, hot cereals, Italiansalad dressing, beef meat, tile cleaner, children's toothpaste, softsoap, and fluorescent light bulbs. If the rule is not applicable, theprocess proceeds to state 1814. If the rule is applicable, the processproceeds to state 1810.

At state 1810 the product database is searched or queried to determinewhether there are matching substitute products that satisfy the rule. Ifthere are no matching substitute products, the process proceeds fromstate 1812 to state 1824 where the user is queried as to whether areplacement for the discarded product is to be included in the user'sorder. If the user answers no, the process proceeds to state 1826, wherethe process of adding the replacement product on the user's order ishalted or cancelled, and the process proceeds to end state 1828. If theuser answers yes, the process proceeds from state 1824 to state 1818.

Referring back to state 1812, if there is a matching substitute product,the process proceeds from state 1812 to state 1814. At state 1814 adetermination is made as to whether the user has defined additionalrules. If yes, the process proceeds back to state 1806, where theadditional rules are applied to further filter or eliminate potentialsubstitute products. Otherwise, the process proceeds to state 1816. Ifmore than matching product was identified at state 1810, then at state1816, user preferences are retrieved from the user account database inorder to rank the identified substitute products according to which onemore closely meets the user's preferences. In one embodiment, the leastexpensive matching product is designated as the top ranked product. Thetop ranked product is then selected as the alternative product.

If the User's Modes Substitution Option Flag is set, then at state 1818a confirmation that the substitute is being added to the user's order isprovided to the user via email, the disposal unit, or otherwise. If theuser's Modes Suggestion Option Flag is set then the user will be askedif the user wants to accept the suggested substitution, and the user'sresponse, enter via the disposal unit user interface or otherwise, isstored and acted on. At state 1820, the substitute product is added tothe user's order, and the process ends at state 1828.

Referring back to state 1804, if neither the Modes Suggestion OptionFlag nor the Modes Substitution Option Flag are set, then the processproceeds to state 1822, where the user's account data is read todetermine if there are other modes set, such as the Travel Modediscussed above. If there are, then these modes are complied with andthe process proceeds to end state 1828.

In addition, using the disposal unit content information, user orderpreferences, and the user's order history, inventory management andcontrol can be performed with greater accuracy and more responsively. Asdiscussed above, the disposal and replacement system stores informationregarding products that are scanned and deposited in the disposal units.This information is then used to generate substantially real-timeinformation on the corresponding households' product consumption. Inaddition, based on users order preferences, delivery preferences, andthe disposal units' content information, information on the itemsconsumed but not yet replenished, the disposal and replacement systemcan predict when replacement products will be or are likely to beordered from suppliers for replenishment.

In particular, based on the content information, user profiles, and/orusers pending orders, the disposal and replacement system creates orupdates a database of consumed products yet to be replenished. Forexample, the database can be stored in disposal unit or in a remote dataprocessing system, such as remote data processing system 7005. Thedatabase includes the identifiers for the products needing to bereplenished, the product quantities, the expected date the productquantities will be needed, the zip code and/or regions where theproducts will be needed, and the retailer or distributor which will needthe corresponding product quantities. This database can be queried usingSQL queries or the like, by authorized retailers and manufacturers inaccordance with the disposal and replacement system's rules andregulations of privacy. Alternatively or in addition, informationregarding the types and quantities of goods needing replacement can beemailed or otherwise provided to selected retailers and supplierswithout a query. Retailers and manufacturers optionally are not providedwith competitor's information or specific order/household for a givenuser. For example, the order information for multiple users can beaggregated together and provided to a supplier without information thatuniquely identifies an individual user.

In order to locate information of interest, retailers or manufacturescan restrict their queries:

by zip code;

by region;

by product;

by date of delivery;

by quantity

by specified delivery date

by manufacturer and/or;

by retailers.

Manufactures, retailers, and suppliers can utilize the substantiallyreal-time consumption information for sales forecasting and productionplanning, to improve efficiencies and logistics, to reduce workingcapital needs, and to evaluate product unit sales performance.

In particular, retailers can analyze the data retrieved from thedatabase to forecast future sales and better plan purchases, reduceinventories, and manage partial fulfillment of orders. The queriedinformation can be used by manufacturers to assess how successful aproduct launching campaign is by zip code, region, date, and the like.In addition, manufacturers can supply products to its regionaldistributors more efficiently according to the zip code or region wherethe goods were consumed. Manufacturers can further use the productconsumption information for production planning purposes.

For example, when users have specified that orders are to be placed witha specific retailer or supplier, the specified retailer or supplier,knowing that the user's orders will be placed with them, can use advanceknowledge of the pending user orders to keep in inventory thecorresponding items and quantities on the order.

Many of the different entities involved in the order and supply chainprocess can be co-located within the same facility or hub to increaseefficiencies and reduces costs. The different entities can includemanufacturers, retailers and logistics companies that share warehousesand docks. Labor costs and general expenses will be shared between theparties as in a co-op. Manufacturers will have inventories leveled inaccordance with sales forecasts and retailers can electronicallypurchase items as they select or bid on users' orders that they want tofulfill and as they actually fulfill orders.

Additionally, embodiments of the waste disposal and replacement systemprovide consumers with home inventory management. In particular, thewaste disposal and replacement system analyzes the consumer's productconsumption pattern for a certain or predetermined time and calculatesthe optimum inventory level for the household. Once this level is found,the system reminds or prompts consumers to purchase replacement itemsthat have been completely consumed, or for items that the waste disposaland replacement system predict will be completely consumed within apredetermined amount of time based on past disposal history. The wastedisposal and replacement system will also inform or advise the user notto buy overstocked until the household reaches an optimal or preferredinventory level.

Optionally, the waste processing and replenishment system operator takessteps to ensure customer's privacy. For example, one or more of thefollowing techniques can be used: households or users are identified byonly using an alphanumeric code; address information is only provided tothe entity, such as a logistics company, that will deliver the order;communications with the disposal unit 7002 and/or the computing devicecan be encrypted; optionally retailers are only informed of the ordercontent and the client identification alphanumeric code; and/oroptionally the logistics company is only informed of the deliveryaddress, and is not informed of the specific order contents.

If a user specified in the user's order preferences that orders are tobe placed with a specific retailer or supplier, the system will receiveuser order and forward the order directly to that retailer or supplier.If the user specified that orders are to be placed with the retailer orsupplier with the best overall order price, optionally includingdelivery charges, the orders are managed in accordance with thefollowing example process.

In one embodiment, when the user specified that the lowest pricedsupplier be used to fill orders, once the system receives and stores theuser order preferences, shipping preferences, and order, the systemprovides potential bidders, such as retailers or other suppliers, withthe order information and the desired delivery date and/or shippingdate. The bidders will then send their bids, including pricinginformation for the order and order delivery, back to the system. Thesystem then compares and/or ranks the bids, and identifies the lowestpriced bid, the next lowest priced bid, and so on. The order is thenplaced with the lowest cost provider who can meet or come within apredefined range of the desired delivery and/or shipping date.

FIG. 19 illustrates a bidding process that can be used if a user askedfor the lowest priced supplier. Beginning at state 1901, the processproceed to state 1902, where the system retrieves the user's orderpreferences, shipping preferences, and order. At state 1904, the systemaccesses supplier databases, via the suppliers' web sites for example,using a web-bot or the like, and retrieves the suppliers' price for theitems on the order. At state 1906, the lowest total price for the orderis determined. This process is repeated for other users' orders placedduring a predetermined period of time. At state 1908 the orders aregrouped or aggregated and the groupings are “published” in a secure areaof the system web site using, by way of example XML protocol, to beauctioned. The groupings can be based on requested delivery, order date,similarity or commonality of items being ordered, and/or geographicallocation. At state 1910 the previously determined lowest price for eachof the users' orders in a given group are summed together.

At state 1912, suppliers, such as retailers, bid for each of the groupof orders offering discounts as compared to their normal retail orwholesale prices. The reserve a given group is set to the previouslycalculated summed price for the group. That is, a successful bid needsto be lower than the summed price for the group. At state 1916 thelowest cost bidder is determined. At state 1916, when the auction ends,the orders for a given group will be forwarded to the best or lowestbidder. At state 1918, discounts are applied to orders proportionally tothe overall discount of the bid for a given group. The process ends atstate 1920.

If the retailer or supplier wants to bid on a user's orders, but isinformed that the order includes items that are ‘reserved,’ that is, theuser has specified that orders for certain items are to be placed with aspecified different retailer or supplier, the retailer or supplier candecline to enter into the auction to supply the user's items.

The disposal unit described above can further be optionally used forvoting. For example, the disposal unit touch screen can be used topresent a ballot and receive votes on such items as the quality of amanufacturer or supplier, or on how socially responsible a manufactureror supplier is. The votes can be collected, stored, and added, and theresults of these votes can be used by users to select manufacturersand/or suppliers. Optionally, the user can be asked to provide a uniqueidentifier, such as a password and/or a social security number, in orderto vote.

The disposal unit can also optionally be used to request services byactivating an appropriate soft button or otherwise provide a request.For example, a soft button corresponding to a baby sitter request can beprovided. Similarly, a soft button can be provided to place an emergencycall to the police, fire department, or ambulance service.

In addition, the barcode scanner can be used to scan barcodes on bills.The user can then enter a password and provide appropriateauthorization, which is transmitted to the system by the disposal unit,and the bill is charged to a designated credit card, debit account, orother financial instrument.

It should be understood that certain variations and modifications ofthis invention would suggest themselves to one of ordinary skill in theart. The scope of the present invention is not to be limited by theillustrations or the foregoing descriptions thereof.

1. A system, comprising: a networked computing system; program codestored in computer readable memory, that when executed by the computingsystem, is configured to: receive scanned information scanned by a uservia a scanning device; generate a user shopping list using the scannedinformation; enable the user shopping list to be displayed to the user;select an electronic coupon based at least in part on items included onthe user shopping list; enable information corresponding to the selectedelectronic coupon to be displayed to the user via the display; andenable a total corresponding to the cost of items on the shopping listto be displayed to the user.